How to treat dehydration, bleeding, and burns in dogs

Accidents Happen: Be the Hero Your Furry Friend Needs!

Ever witnessed your pup’s playful antics take a tumble into trouble? Whether it’s a mischievous run-in with a tree branch or an overzealous romp at the beach without enough hydration, accidents can catch our furry companions off guard. That’s where your knowledge of dog first aid comes in!

Buckle up for a comprehensive guide on treating common doggo dilemmas – dehydration, external bleeding, and burns. We’re your trusty sidekick on this journey, but remember, in severe cases, always consult your vet. Now, let’s dive into becoming the paw-sitive hero your pup deserves!

Pet first aid is a very wide topic and in order to provide more details, I will split it into multiple posts. In this one we will cover the first 3 topics of pet first aid: how to treat dehydration, external bleeding and burns in dogs. In case of serious issues always visit the vet immediately.

Myth Busted: Wet Nose ≠ Guaranteed Health

Sure, a wet nose is a sign of vitality, but do you know what’s even more telling? Equipping yourself with knowledge to decode your dog’s health signs. We’re not saying you’ll be checking temperatures daily, but understanding their baseline can save the day!

🔥 Body Temperature: Normal for dogs: 38-39°C. Keep your cool like a pup on a porch!

💓 Heartbeat Rate: For dogs, 60-160 bpm, for cats, 160-220 bpm. Find it on the chest, inside back leg, or paw.

🫁 Breathing Rate: Dogs: 10-30 breaths/min, cats: 20-30 breaths/min. Listen to their rhythm!

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and tackle those first aid basics, shall we?

Quenching the Thirst: Dehydration

🚰 Cause & Effect: From beach days to forgotten water bowls, dehydration is no joke. Spot the signs and act swiftly!

🔎 Recognize Symptoms: Check the image for cues – remember, knowledge is power.

💡 First Aid: If mild, encourage sips. If unwell, try chicken/beef broth (cooled, of course). A vet’s the go-to if things don’t improve.

If you have been outside and notice dehydration signs, first move inside to a cool area and slowly provide small amounts of water. In case you do not see any improvements or your dog refuses to drink always contact a vet. They can provide an IV with fluid to strengthen your dog

Infographic with tips how to prevent dehydration in dogs — Tips to avoid dehydration in dogs

Stopping the Flow: External Bleeding

🩸 Oops Moments: Your pup’s exuberance can lead to small cuts. Be the calm in the storm!

🌡 Stay Calm: Assess the cut’s severity and tend to it. Small cuts can be cleaned and managed at home. Keep the wound clean and keep an eye on the healing.

🚀 Monitor & Seek Help: Keep an eye on behavior. If your dog’s unusually quiet or you see signs of infection, consult the vet. In case of bigger wounds always contact the vet.

Soothing the Burn: Burns

🔥 From Tail to Table: Pups don’t get kitchen hazards. Burns happen around stoves, candles, and even sizzling summer pavements.

🏥 Seek Relief: Home remedies like cold water or aloe vera can work wonders. Consult a vet for larger or severe burns.

Tail-Wagging Takeaway

🐶 Pet Safety 101: Accidents can strike anytime. As the sun blazes, remember to hydrate your pup, and keep them safe from potential burns.

🔍 Knowledge is Key: With the right know-how, you’re now the go-to hero for your furry friend! 🦸‍♀️

🔮 Stay Tuned: Our furry first aid series continues. Next up: How to tackle Bloat/GDV and poisoning in dogs.

Thanks for reading!

High Five

Disclaimer: I’m not a veterinarian, and this post provides advice based on research and experience. Always consult with a licensed veterinarian for personalized guidance